A classical concert to rock the audience

Linslade musician Richard Stark played guitar with rock band Jetna Depths – until he discovered Placido Domingo in the heavy metal section of a record shop.

“That was 20 years ago and I’ve been singing opera ever since,” he smiled.

Now he’s combining the best of both genres in the Classical Rock Show at Cedars Upper School’s main theatre on Sunday, March 1.

“The audience is in for a really good night,” he promised. “The first half is a scripted rock show incorporating classical versions of well-known rock and pop songs including music from Queen, the Hollies, Elbow and Status Quo as well as innovative takes on Mozart and Verdi.

“The second half will be a straight forward concert in the vein of Alfie Boe and Russell Watson.”

He and guest soprano Jill Neenan will sing a selection of songs from Les Miserables and other popular material as well as much-loved numbers from Katherine Jenkins.

They will be accompanied by an eight-piece band comprising various instruments including keyboard, drums, cello, violin, flute and trumpet.

Richard, says the concert will showcase a format he hopes to develop and take further.

All profits will go to MIND. The charity is close to his heart because his sister worked in mental health for the NHS and he believes music has the ability to reach people, no matter what their problem.